Turkey has formally issued a new NAVTEX, valid until August 30, authorising the research vessel Oruc Reis to conduct seismic surveys for a controversial underwater natural gas pipeline connecting the Turkish mainland with the occupied territories of Cyprus.
The move follows a memorandum of cooperation signed on July 10 between Turkey and the Turkish-backed pseudo-state in occupied Cyprus. According to Turkish media, the Oruc Reis will carry out surveys along the proposed pipeline route throughout the coming weeks.
Turkish officials describe the pipeline as a project to enhance energy security in the occupied territories by replacing liquid fuels used for electricity generation with natural gas. Ankara also promotes the initiative as the foundation for a future Eastern Mediterranean energy corridor that could transport gas to Europe through Turkish territory.
Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar announced that the pipeline will span a total of 101 kilometres — 97 km underwater and 4 km on land — linking the Anamur region on Turkey’s Mediterranean coast with Teknetjik, east of occupied Kyrenia.
The design includes two parallel 22-inch diameter submarine pipelines capable of bidirectional natural gas flow. In the first phase, gas will be supplied from Turkey to the occupied areas. The project also encompasses the construction of reception stations and integration with the local natural gas network.
Design work is expected to conclude by the end of 2026, with the pipeline scheduled to become operational in 2028. The total construction cost has not yet been disclosed.
The announcement has raised fresh concerns in Nicosia and Athens, as it further entrenches Turkey’s presence and activities in the exclusive economic zone of the Republic of Cyprus. The Republic of Cyprus continues to denounce such actions as illegal under international law.